We asked local librarians to tell us their top picks in summer reading for preschoolers and their recommendations were spot on! Discover tons of great books to read together and keep kids occupied during family road trips, trips to the beach or pool and settling down after a long day of summer fun. These books will inspire them, teach them and help develop their imagination all season long.
Julián Is a Mermaid
An exquisitely illustrated celebration of individuality, love and acceptance by Jessica Love. After a day at the pool, a curious little boy gets a glimpse of costumed mermaids and is filled with so much wonder and dazzle. Aside from the beauty filled pages, this story is a wonderful lesson in self-love and individuality even little ones can understand.
The Rabbit Listened
A must read for anyone needing a little extra comfort this summer. This poignant and sweet story is a tender lesson in listening and coping through loss, heartache or anyone who needs a hug. With charming illustrations and a relatable story that serves as a reminder that when things are tough all we need is someone to be with us. Simple, straightforward and profound.
Ladybug Girl and Bumblebee Boy
Without the routine of school schedules and break of separate classrooms, sibling riverly takes on a whole new level during summer months. Teach children about resolving conflict and working together in this cheerful picture book by Jackie Davis. Together they figure out that when they work together, they can create fun games they both like to play.
Dress Like a Girl
Patricia Toht creates and uplifting and resonant story for boys and girls that intill the idea that the best way to dress is the way you feel most like YOU! From sports to politics, a playful and fashionable slumber party takes an empowering turn teaches us to follow our passions, creativity and heart.
Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus
A favorite among preschoolers through early elementary children, Mo Willems creates laugh-out-loud picture books about a demanding pigeon. This glorious picture book perfectly captures a preschooler’s temper tantrum!
This is Not My Hat
Winner of the Caldecott Medal, Jon Klassen tells a humorous story about a tiny fish causing trouble and making assumptions. The beautiful and simple illustrations and text teach children about asking questions and engaging discussion.
Mouse Paint
A super fun and informative book by Ellen Stoll Walsh! Three while miss discover just what happens when you mix colors and county. The cut-paper illustrations are bright and engaging. A great book to go along with some summer creativity.
High Five
A one-of-a-kind, laugh out loud book by Adam Rubin and illustrated by Daniel Salmieri, guides kids through a series of goofy, interactive challenges from high fives to stretches. This book is totally unique and would be perfect for summer road trips!
You’re Missing It!
A hilarious yet timely tale by Brady Smith and Tiffani Thiessen, brought to life with bold artwork teaches everyone in the family just what happens when you are glued to your phone! This book really teaches us to slow down and savor time together this summer from the child’s perspective.
The Day You Begin
National Book Award Winner, Jacqueline Woodson and illustrator Rafael Lopez create a poignant book about finding courage. This heartwarming story encourages children love themselves, embrace their differences and take the steps needed to feel brave enough to share their stories.
Read More:
Summer Reading List for Babies
Summer Reading List for Early Elementary
Summer Reading List for Tweens
Thank you to the Pawling Free Library, Wallkill Public Library and West Hurley Library for helping us compile this list! Hudson Valley Libraries offer an endless amount of summer adventures for your family this year. Stop into the cool air conditioning, pick up all your favorite books for your summer day trips and don't forget to sign up for a summer reading program and sneak learning into summer fun.
Follow Hudson Valley Parent all summer long on Facebook and Instagram! #HVPsummer